Free State Aftercare Centre – Facilities Upgrade Project
Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
Project Initiators: Doxa Deo Church & Civilab@CUT
Project Scope Date: 3 February – 2 March 2023 (Planning & Initial Execution)
The Free State Aftercare Centre upgrade is a collaborative community improvement project led by Doxa Deo Church, who have signed a three-year agreement to use the venue for services and events, in partnership with Civilab@CUT for technical surveying, planning, and design. The objective is to create a more functional, welcoming, and accessible space for church activities, community engagement, and aftercare services.
Scope of Planned Upgrades:
- Extend main stage for better event hosting.
- Transform older tuckshop into a coffee shop.
- Remove internal wall to create open-plan reception and improved flow.
- Upgrade bathrooms for visitors.
- Build a new outdoor fireplace (boma).
- Remove front boundary wall for improved visibility and replace with clear-view fencing.
- Create new walkway connecting to Lettie Fouché School for easy access by children.
- Enhance play areas, including new playground equipment and slides.
- Provide new parking and improved site access.
Methodology and Work Completed:
- Site Survey (3 Feb 2023): Two survey teams measured key internal and external areas, including hallways, bathrooms, tuckshop, reception, children’s ministry area, and the property’s perimeter. Data was collected using traditional surveying and drone photography.
- Drafting Plans: Using AutoCAD, existing site plans were drafted from scratch (as no official council plans existed). Proposed upgrade plans were produced, with 3D renderings prepared in Autodesk Revit in collaboration with external partners.
- Initiation of Renovations: Based on these plans, renovation and demolition work began on 2 March 2023.
Expected Community Benefits:
- Improved Event Hosting: The stage extension and coffee shop will allow larger, more professional community and church events.
- Better First Impressions: Bathrooms, reception, and open areas will be more inviting, enhancing visitor comfort and engagement.
- Accessible Infrastructure: Walkways and parking improvements will make the centre more inclusive, particularly for children and community members with mobility challenges.
- Child-Centric Spaces: New playgrounds and direct school access promote safe recreation for children in aftercare.
Educational Benefit to Students:
Civilab@CUT students were actively involved in surveying, drafting, and rendering, gaining hands-on, real-world experience in engineering and architectural software applications. This practical learning opportunity forms part of CUT’s commitment to community-driven skill development.
Documents
Free State Aftercare Report.pdf
